Cathy Dominguez-Chinn

Senior Transfer Admissions Counselor

Meet Cathy

Admissions job: I work with prospective students by guiding them through the entire college admissions process. I also conduct interviews, appointments, and the occasional campus tour.

Hometown: Hollister, California

Education: San Benito High School; Seattle Pacific University (BA, English Literature; minor in History)

Favorite Seattle restaurant: Din Tai Fung Dumpling House

A trip I’d like to take: Eastern Europe and South America are next on my list.

Family: My best friend and husband Bobby (who also happens to be a fellow SPU grad!)

Favorite movie:The Fellowship of the Ring and The Fall

Favorite book I read in college:The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri; and The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene

Favorite thing about SPU: I absolutely love SPU’s mission to engage the culture and change the world. It encompasses so many different parts of the student experience. It’s reflected in conversations in the classroom, campus ministries, and various service opportunities, both local and abroad. It’s a big vision, but one that SPU carries out beautifully.

Advice for high school/transfer students:

Get the admissions process started early and visit the schools that you are serious about. The location and feel of a school are best experienced firsthand, so make the most of your time on campus! Your school will be your home for the next few years, so choose a community that feels right for you. College is one of the most transformative times in your life, so be ready to take advantage of every opportunity!

My Two Cents’ Worth

What do you look for in applicants?
We do a holistic review process, which means that we don’t just look at academics, but also at a student’s special talents, interests, and passions. It's important that we understand what kind of life experiences a student has had. We also pay attention to unique achievements and extracurricular activities; we want to see how a student can contribute to our community.

What makes SPU different than other Christian colleges?
Our location definitely sets us apart from other Christian colleges. We are located on Queen Anne hill, just 10 minutes north of downtown Seattle. We have the advantage of being in a city, while also maintaining a strong sense of community in a charming residential neighborhood. It really is the best of both worlds!

Why did you choose SPU?
I was attracted to the vibrant faith community, strong academics, and amazing location.

Since you attended SPU yourself, what advice do you have for SPU students?
Get involved! I was lucky enough to participate in a study abroad trip to South Africa, as well as one to the British Isles. Both experiences were hugely transformational. I also tutored in south Seattle through the John Perkins Center. There is no better way to explore vocational calling and learn cross-cultural competence than serving in both the local and global community.

What student question has surprised you the most?
I am always surprised by the amount of weather-related questions I get from out-of-state students. While it does rain in Seattle a fair amount, we do still have sunny days! Summer and fall in the Northwest can’t be beat.